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Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone sent a greeting to a large group of young Italian pilgrims in the Holy Land, which was read by Bishop Antonio Franco, Apostolic Delegate in Jerusalem, during the Mass he presided in the Basilica of Gethsemane on May 23. The theme of the pilgrimage was “We want peace in the Holy Land” and was organized by the Papaboys Association, the National Eucharistic Assembly, and the Apostolate of Youth for Life. Beginning May 20 in Jerusalem, 150 young people have been in land of Jesus and they will remain there until May 27, with time for prayer, meetings, and visits to the holy places of the Christian faith.
Cardinal Bertone affirmed his appreciation for the youth's initiative, as they “walk in the footsteps left by the Holy Father during his recent trip to the Holy Land, and carrying out his same itinerary, in profound spiritual union, they wish to reflect on the event, once again promote paths of interreligious dialogue and pray for peace.” Recalling that “the experience of prayer turns young people into men and women of hope, as Benedict XVI has affirmed,” the Cardinal concluded by asking the Lord to “grant abundant graces, to strengthen their faith and adhesion to a Christian life, which had its origins in that land and that continues for centuries, as it is around the Eucharist that the Church, the great family of Catholics, is constantly reborn and grows.” (SL) (Agenzia Fides 25/5/2009)
